Farewell & Thank You Ambassador Nona Deprez: Youth Sounding Board Joint Statement

17 AUG, 2023

Dear Ambassador Nona Deprez, 

Much like a vibrant garden, Nepal's landscape flourishes with a variety of cultures and landscapes that come together harmoniously. Throughout your ambassadorial tenure, you've done a great job bringing these different parts closer. As your time here comes to an end, our emotions are a blend of gratitude for shared experiences and bittersweetness as we prepare to bid you farewell. 

Through three years of unwavering dedication, active involvement, and genuine passion, your role as the European Union’s ambassador has fostered a prosperous relationship between the EU and Nepal. By prioritizing and amplifying the voices and values of the youth within the platforms established in collaboration with both governmental and non-governmental sectors, you've played a significant role in building strong connections. Your dedication has instilled within us a sense of pride, deep appreciation, and utmost respect for your exceptional contributions. Upon your departure from South Asia, we acknowledge your pivotal role in nurturing hope, and we are immensely grateful for the meaningful interactions and learning experiences shared during our impactful collaboration with you and the EU. 

Nepal's cultural fusion resembles assembling a grand puzzle. An instrumental part of this fusion has been your dedication to inclusivity, epitomized by the establishment of the Youth Bounding Board (YSB) under your leadership. This initiative, designed to empower youths and bring their ideas into the EU's efforts in Nepal, has sparked teamwork and constructive changes. This lasting impact, closely tied to the essence of the YSB, serves as a guiding force for the road ahead, sowing seeds for positive changes that will keep growing, all thanks to your leadership. We express our gratitude for initiating a platform like YSB, which has not only emboldened us but also has left an enduring legacy, perpetually inspiring positive change in Nepal.  

The Youth Sounding Board holds a very special place in all of our hearts as it does for our ambassador. A year-long journey of learning and empowerment has enabled us to speak our minds and express our thoughts fearlessly. Reflecting on our time as a YSB member, it becomes evident that it was a transformative process. Much like the YSB’s motto, we definitely were engaged, empowered, and connected.  

As you say goodbye to the captivating landscapes of South Asia, it is crucial to recognize that your contributions have planted the seeds of hope and advancement. We feel truly fortunate and appreciative of your invaluable endeavors in the realm of youth. 

Esteemed Ambassador, may your future be as enriching and inspiring as the path you have illuminated for us and as vibrant as Nepal’s diverse regions. We bid you farewell and heartfelt wishes for the best.  

Regards, 

Youth Sounding Board Nepal